Should I disable integrated graphics: Windows, Linux

Integrated graphics is when the GPU is built into the processor. Integrated uses the system memory that is shared with the CPU. Sometimes you want to disable the integrated graphics, in this article we will show you how.

Should I disable integrated graphics?

In case you know why you need to disable your integrated graphic chipset and its benefits of it, then do as you need. Otherwise, you should let your operating system keep managing both your integrated and external graphic cards as it is optimized to switch dynamically when it is needed. Keep in mind that using only your external graphic card may result in poor battery life and software compatibility issues.

On Windows

Windows lets you install third-party software such as the NVIDIA control panel or the AMD pro control center if you need to manually tweak which apps need the integrated or external graphic card.

On Linux

On Linux, it is another story as there is no native dynamic switching, and must be handled manually depending on the Linux distribution you have.